Pell City Sports Complex Enhances Safety with New Lightning Detection System

The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department recently installed a new, state-of-the-art lightning detection system at the Pell City Sports Complex. The system monitors a zone around the Complex and automatically notifies attendees of approaching lightning via flashing lights and a brief siren.

Provided by Perry Weather, the system is connected to a global, real-time weather monitoring platform that provides more accurate and reliable lightning detection at the ball fields and adjacent Parks facilities. Perry Weather is relied on by many surrounding communities, including Hoover and Vestavia Hills, and it is even deployed to safeguard fans at Protective Life Stadium in Birmingham.

PLAY VIDEO TO HEAR WARNING SIREN TEST

“Our top priority is always the protection of our families,” Athletics Director Joey Morrow said. “This technology is a game-changer for our facilities and shows we’re serious about giving everyone the safest experience possible.”

Perry Weather, gives a more accurate and reliable way to detect lightning than the Department’s previous methods. The system monitors conditions in real-time and uses smart technology to provide precise alerts. The automated system eliminates false alarms and gives exact all-clear notifications.

The Perry Weather dashboard (above) allows Pell City Parks & Recreation staff to monitor lightning strikes in real time from their mobile devices. When a strike occurs inside the red circle, the system will automatically trigger a warning for visitors to the Sports Complex and Lakeside Park. The system also allows staff to consult directly with a meteorologist about weather conditions.

How the System Works

The new system, located atop the Baseball Concession Stand, is not a weather monitoring system.

It detects lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius of the Complex. When a strike occurs within the zone, the system will activate a brief siren. This distinct, attention-grabbing signal will alert everyone in the vicinity to the potential danger and announce to players and families that the fields should be cleared immediately.

Safety Guidelines

If you hear the lightning warning signal, please adhere to the following safety guidelines:

  • Seek Shelter Immediately: Do not wait for visual confirmation of lightning. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle with the windows closed.
  • Avoid High-Risk Areas: Stay away from open fields, water, tall trees, and metal objects such as fences, bleachers, and light poles.
  • Wait 30 Minutes for the All-Clear Signal: The siren will sound a brief tone again to notify that it is safe to return outdoors.

For more information, contact Pell City Parks & Recreation Athletics at https://pell-city.com/athletics/

Pell City 12U Baseball becomes official Little League partner

After months of preparation, Pell City Parks and Recreation is proud to announce that in 2025 some of its athletes will join the biggest name in youth sports – Little League.

Little League is the world’s largest organized youth sports program, with over 2 million baseball and softball players in communities across every U.S. state and over 80 countries.

This partnership marks a monumental step forward for the community’s young athletes, offering them the chance to compete on larger stages and potentially earn a spot in the Little League Baseball World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Millions across the globe watch the annual tournament, including many young players right here in Pell City.

“We’re excited, and we know our players will be, too,” Athletic Director Joey Morrow said. “It’s not just a potential opportunity to represent their local community in televised games, it’s a chance for them to compete at youth sports’ highest level of competition.”

The transition to Little League will only affect 2025 players signing up for 12U Baseball leagues with Pell City Parks and Recreation. All other baseball leagues will remain in USSSA, and all All-Stars programs will continue as they have in years past.

The move to Little League underscores Pell City Parks and Recreation’s commitment to fostering youth development and community pride. Alongside skill-building and athletic competition, Little League emphasizes character development, leadership, and a love for the game of baseball.

Registration for the upcoming season is now open. Parents can register their children at pellcity.recdesk.com.

For more information on Little League, visit LittleLeague.org.